Conveniently located near major highways, Dallas Fort Worth airports, the train and an even shorter drive from Downtown is Fort Worth’s corner of delicious eats, smokey meats and Texas tradition—The Stockyards. As a local barbecue enthusiast, I’ve spent countless hours exploring the culinary landscape of Fort Worth. There are many pitmasters that pride themselves on crisp brisket, a unique dry rub, side dishes headlining the menu, or even their grandmother’s famous banana pudding recipe. However, in this world of smoky excellence, Riscky’s Barbecue reigns supreme. A nearly century-old restaurant, Riscky’s is a staple that should be first on your list to try.
During the heart of the Great Depression, the Riscky’s brand was established by Joe and Mary Riscky, both Polish immigrants who embodied the true American dream. The couple set their eyes on Azle Avenue where a brick and mortar still stands tall to this day. They would go on to open five more locations while landing a premier spot in Fort Worth’s historical district, The Stockyards. The restaurant is surrounded by weathered brick buildings and cobblestone streets that tell stories of numerous cattle drives and cowboy legends. The moment you walk through the door, the aroma of slow-smoked meats envelops you—a rich, smoky promise of the meal to come. On weekends, the restaurant is filled with energy from locals and tourists alike. Cowboys in full attire, families, and barbecue enthusiasts crowd the space, creating a lively environment that’s as much about community as it is about food. The staff treats you like family, offering recommendations and sharing stories with the same warmth you’d expect from a friend.
Along with being one of the oldest restaurants in Fort Worth, Riscky’s also holds the claim to fame of being one of the first to serve calf fries. Now, let me tell you about calf fries—they’re not just a dish, they’re a piece of Texas history. There are many ways to appreciate cattle here in Texas, but calf fries? They’re a whole different story. Often considered a delicacy (or a source of nervous laughter), these “meat nuggets” have deep roots in cowboy culture. What started as a waste-not, want-not approach during spring roundups in the Rocky Mountains became a culinary tradition. When ranchers were out dehorning, branding, and castrating calves, nothing went to waste. In Texas, we call these delicate morsels “calf fries”—and Fort Worth, our beloved Cowtown, is the absolute Texas capital for these legendary “meat balls.”
Nearly a century later, Riscky’s remains a constant. Through World Wars, economic shifts, and changing culinary trends, this restaurant has continued to be a living example of the American dream. From their perfectly smoked meats to those infamous calf fries that make visitors do a double-take and locals nod with pride. Every visit is a celebration of Texas tradition, served up with a side of genuine hospitality. Be sure to add a trip to Riscky’s on your itinerary next time you find yourself in Fort Worth. Yeehaw!
